The Alstroemeria flower, commonly known as the Peruvian Lily or the Lily of the Incas, is a significant presence in commercial floristry. This vibrant bloom is valued for its striking appearance and remarkable longevity once cut. It is a staple in bouquets and arrangements worldwide, often serving as a colorful filler or a beautiful focal point.
Defining the Alstroemeria Flower
The genus Alstroemeria belongs to the family Alstroemeriaceae, a group of tuberous-rooted herbaceous perennials. This classification distinguishes it from true lilies, despite its common names and lily-like, trumpet-shaped blooms. The plant is native exclusively to South America, with species originating from two primary centers of diversity: one in central Chile and the other in eastern Brazil.
Alstroemeria flowers typically feature six petal-like structures, or tepals, arranged symmetrically. They display an impressive spectrum of colors, including various shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, white, and purple. A defining characteristic is the intricate, darker markings—streaks, flecks, or stripes—that appear on the inner three tepals, often contrasting sharply with the base color.
The plant exhibits a unique botanical trait known as resupination, where the leaves twist 180 degrees as they grow. This causes the underside of the leaf blade, which is typically the lighter surface, to face upward toward the sun. These long, lance-shaped leaves grow on upright stems that emerge from fleshy, underground tubers.
Caring for Cut Stems and Garden Plants
Caring for cut Alstroemeria blooms is straightforward, contributing to their long vase life, often lasting up to two weeks. Upon receiving, stems should be recut at a sharp angle using clean shears to maximize water absorption. Remove any foliage that would fall below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.
Place the stems in a vase with fresh water and commercial flower food. Change the water and re-trim the stems every few days to maintain a clean environment. Keep vases away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or ripening fruit, as these elements accelerate decay.
For those cultivating Alstroemeria in the garden, the plant thrives as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 10, sometimes requiring winter protection in cooler zones. Garden plants perform best in a location that receives full morning sun but offers afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. The plant requires consistently moist, fertile, and well-drained soil to prevent the tuberous roots from rotting.
Established plants need approximately one inch of water per week. A layer of mulch helps keep the root zone cool, encouraging flower production over tuber growth. To encourage continuous blooming, stems should be harvested or deadheaded by gently pulling the entire stem from the base. This action stimulates the growth of new flowering shoots from the rhizomes below the soil.
Symbolism and Common Uses
The Alstroemeria holds rich symbolic meaning, most commonly representing devotion, deep friendship, and loyalty. Its multiple blooms clustered on a single stem are often interpreted as mutual support and interconnectedness. The flower is also associated with good fortune, prosperity, and wealth, making it a thoughtful gift.
The various colors of the flower carry their own nuanced meanings, allowing for personalized expressions; for instance, yellow Alstroemeria conveys joy, while white is often used to symbolize purity. The plant’s utility in floral design is due to its remarkable longevity and the fact that it is virtually scentless, making it a suitable choice for individuals sensitive to strong fragrances. Florists favor it because a single stem provides a generous cluster of blooms, adding volume and texture to mixed arrangements.